Dewatering and Groundwater Control

Abstract

Whenever excavation must take place below the water table, groundwater affects the project. It affects the function and design of the facility, and the cost of its construction. Groundwater is a frequent cause of disputes between the owner and the contractor. Dewatering by unsuitable methods can under some conditions cause damage to adjacent properties, and result in third party litigation. Under some conditions dewatering may be harmful to the environment. Activities involving groundwater are closely regulated in many areas. The process of obtaining permits is often tedious, and sometimes authorities require special procedures that can be expensive.